Learning Persian can feel overwhelming at first — but with the right resources, it becomes an exciting and rewarding journey!
Whether you’re just starting out or trying to pick up speed after a break, I’ve gathered some of the best tools that helped me (and many others) learn Persian more easily and effectively.
Here’s a rundown of the best online resources to learn Persian — based on real experience and learner tips.
🌟 1. Talk Like a Persian (Highly Recommended for Beginners and Intermediate Learners)
Talk Like a Persian is, without a doubt, one of the best websites if you’re starting from scratch or need a solid foundation.
Here’s why it stands out:
- Complete learning path: From mastering the Persian alphabet to beginner and intermediate lessons.
- Fun online activities: Each lesson includes quick, interactive exercises to lock in your learning.
- Progress tracking: See your growth after each session.
- Learn Persian with Movies: A super fun way to pick up everyday language while watching Persian films!
- Alphabet course: Just 15 short lessons — perfect for quickly learning to read and write.
- Practice typing Persian: Their blog posts guide you through installing Persian fonts and practicing real typing.
It’s affordable, extremely user-friendly, and helps you feel real progress without the stress.
Highly recommended for serious beginners!
🎧 2. Pimsleur Persian (Great for Conversation on the Go)
If you’re always on the move, Pimsleur Persian is a lifesaver.
- Builds your speaking and listening skills from the very first lesson.
- 100% audio-based — perfect for driving, walking, or working out.
- Focuses on everyday conversation without needing textbooks.
A perfect companion if you want to build your confidence speaking Persian naturally!
🎥 3. IMVBox (Learn Persian with Subtitled Iranian Movies)
Looking for a way to immerse yourself in the language while being entertained?
IMVBox offers Iranian movies and series with English and Persian subtitles.
- Watch award-winning Iranian cinema and TV shows.
- Read and listen to natural Persian dialogue at the same time.
- Build your vocabulary, listening skills, and cultural understanding effortlessly.
It’s a fantastic way to pick up colloquial expressions and understand Persian culture better — highly recommended for intermediate learners especially!
📚 4. Easy Persian (A Free and Classic Resource)
Easy Persian is a goldmine if you’re ready to dive into reading and grammar.
- Completely free.
- Detailed lessons covering script, grammar, vocabulary, and listening.
- Structured like a full course.
Tip: This site does expect you to start with the Persian alphabet, so be ready to learn reading and writing early on.
🗺️ 5. Lonely Planet Persian Phrasebook
For travelers or casual learners, the Lonely Planet Persian Phrasebook is a must-have.
- Everything is transliterated (you don’t need to read Persian script).
- Highlights when a phrase is formal or colloquial — super helpful!
Perfect if you need quick, useful phrases without a big time commitment.
🧑🏫 6. italki (Find a Persian Tutor Online)
When you’re ready for personalized learning, italki is amazing.
- Choose from hundreds of professional Persian tutors.
- Affordable (around $10–$15 per session).
- Book lessons whenever it fits your schedule.
A lot of learners recommend tutors like Hamideh and Ela — but there are many great options based on your learning style!
🎬 7. More Great Tools for Persian Learners
- LingQ.com: Graded readers and vocabulary practice.
- Persian Language Online: Beginner-friendly graded stories.
- Colloquial Persian (Book): A solid beginner’s guide mixing vocabulary and grammar.
- Watching Peppa Pig in Persian (seriously!) on Aparat.com: Great for ultra-beginners.
- Refold.la: Language learning strategies (works great for Persian too).
Final Thoughts
Learning Persian doesn’t have to be a lonely or confusing journey. 🌟
With sites like Talk Like a Persian, apps like Pimsleur, entertaining platforms like IMVBox, and personal tutors on italki, you can build your skills quickly, enjoyably, and affordably.
My advice?
👉 Start small. Master the alphabet with short lessons.
👉 Mix listening, speaking, reading, and typing practice.
👉 And most importantly, stay consistent and have fun!